Hopi Pueblo. <em>Kachina Doll (Polimana)</em>, late 19th century. Wood, pigment, cotton, feather, 21 3/4 × 9 1/4 × 4 1/2 in. (55.2 × 23.5 × 11.4 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Museum Expedition 1904, Museum Collection Fund, 04.297.5592. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 04.297.5592_PS9.jpg)

Kachina Doll (Polimana)

Artist:Hopi Pueblo

Medium: Wood, pigment, cotton, feather

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:late 19th century

Dimensions: 21 3/4 × 9 1/4 × 4 1/2 in. (55.2 × 23.5 × 11.4 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: 04.297.5592

Image: 04.297.5592_PS9.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
Tall, stately female with elaborate tablita (headdress). Her arms and forearms are broken off. This complex Kachina may take on different personae. She may become Polimana, Butterfly Maiden, when she performs during the March Angl'wa dance ceremonies. Or she may be a troupe of four Corn-grinding maidens during the same ceremonies. Both performances are prayers for rain and bountiful harvest. Lastly she can perform a special dance anytime if sponsored by a kiva.

Brooklyn Museum